Cody Kuxmann is a Referee at the London Society Of Rugby Football Union Referees, while studying International Relations at Richmond, The American International University in London. He lives in Richmond Upon Thames but hails from Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Rosslyn Park RFC, London – This past week the USA High School All-Americans took part in the largest outdoor sports tournament in the world; the Rosslyn Park 7s. They competed against professional caliber teams, and got a wonderful experience. I was able to catch up with the team on finals day, after just having been knocked out by Llandovery College, who are currently one of the top Welsh rugby schools in the country.
While talking to the team, it was evident that they all wanted to be there and were grateful for the experience gained. The biggest thing that they noted was the knowledge of the game and the openness of play. They felt it was a wonderful experience to have and one that will greatly help them in the future.
When asked about the refereeing, the only comments were how it seems to be much better here than back in the USA, and how there is a much more communication.
The biggest attribute that the All-Americans brought to the pitch was there physicality. When talking to the referee from one of their matches, he 
found that it was great to see the Americans playing a “proper sport,” and the amount sense of physicality that was brought to the field was impressive. He said that he could tell the players genuinely enjoyed playing the game – even when they were losing.
The USA All-Americans now go on to compete in a international youth tournament held at Wellington College and will most assuredly come away with more great experiences. They play Wales U-16, England North U-16 and finish the weekend with Belgium U-17.
Best of luck to the USA High School All-Americans!
